Dry Eye is a chronic, inflammatory condition of the ocular surface and tear film. While in-clinic treatments are essential, nutrition plays a critical supporting role in improving tear quality, reducing inflammation, and supporting long-term symptom control.
Here we outline the key nutrients shown to benefit dry eye, and how dietary choices can support your treatment outcomes
Healthy tears rely on:
Adequate oil (lipid) production from the meibomian glands
A stable tear film
Reduced ocular surface inflammation
Modern diets high in processed foods and low in essential fatty acids can worsen tear instability and inflammation. Strategic nutritional support helps address dry eye from the inside out.
Helps improve tear stability and reduce inflammation of the eye surface.
Best sources
Fatty fish: salmon, sardines, mackerel, anchovies
Plant sources: flaxseed, chia seeds, walnuts
Fish oil or omega-3 supplements like Actase OmegaEye
Key nutrients
EPA & DHA (fish)
ALA (plants)
Essential for tear production and corneal health.
Food sources
Liver (small amounts)
Egg yolk
Carrots
Sweet potatoes
Spinach, kale
Pumpkin
It is important to avoid excess vitamin A supplements unless prescribed or advised by a medical professional.
Low vitamin D is commonly associated with dry eye severity.
Sources
Sunlight
Fatty fish
Egg yolks
Fortified milk / plant milks
It is important to arrange a blood test with your GP to clarify your vitamin D levels.
Protect eye tissues from oxidative stress.
Important antioxidants
Vitamin C: oranges, kiwi, bell peppers
Vitamin E: almonds, sunflower seeds, avocado
Polyphenols: berries, green tea, dark chocolate (70%+)
Oysters
Beef
Pumpkin seeds
Chickpeas
Lentils
Dehydration worsens dry eye symptoms.
Good options
Cucumber
Watermelon
Celery
Soup / broth
Herbal teas
Always aim to drink plenty of water on a daily basis as recommended for your gender and health status.
Limit or reduce:
Highly processed foods
Trans fats (fried foods, margarine)
Excess omega-6 oils (corn oil, soybean oil)
High sugar intake
Excess alcohol
Too much caffeine (moderation is key)
These increase systemic inflammation and can worsen tear instability.
Breakfast
Eggs with spinach + olive oil
Whole grain toast
Green tea
Lunch
Grilled salmon
Quinoa
Steamed vegetables
Snack
Walnuts + berries
Dinner
Lentil or chickpea stew
Sweet potatoes
Avocado salad
Omega-3 (EPA/DHA – Actase OmegaEye)
Vitamin D (if deficient)
Omega-7 (sea buckthorn oil)
Probiotics (gut-eye inflammation link)
Our clinicians can provide individualised nutrition and supplement guidance as part of your dry eye assessment.
Clinicians trained in dry eye management.
Personalised plans designed for your lifestyle.
Proven treatments like IPL & LLLT.
We support you from start to finish.
Improve quality of life for patients with dry eye disease.
To be recognised as the leading dry eye centre in the UK.
Innovation, Integrity, Compassion, Patient First.
